GARDENING Q&A

By David Rodriguez, Guest Columnist

Updated 5:23 pm, Monday, April 22, 2013

Q: We have a large population of deer on our area. Are there any recommended books or articles that list trees, shrubs and flowers that deer will not eat? Also, do deer eat Pride of Barbados? Do I need to put up a fence around each tree or shrub?

A: There are many articles and books on deer and gardening. The one that we are most comfortable with because of actual personal experiences is found at www.plantanswers.com/articles/deerbest.asp. It addresses the deer's damage to young trees and shrubs.

Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherimma) in my neighborhood normally withstands the deer pressure but has been known to have its blossoms eaten by them.

A: Mature clumps can be divided now in early spring. Just be sure when you re-plant the divisions to keep the crown of the roots above the soil surface.

Q:Where can I find a reliable source for Amelia tomato seeds?

A: Do a Google search for “Amelia tomato seed.” If they are no longer readily available, try “Tycoon” or “Tygress.”

Q:I am new to the Hill Country and have cedar bushes growing under many of my trees. Should these bushes be removed?

A: That is entirely up to you. I know of no horticultural reason that they should be removed. They, like all plants, will share whatever rainfall that you get. They do release pollen that many are allergic to during their mid-winter bloom season. If you like them, keep them. If not, remove them.

Q: We moved into a brand new home and the builders planted a couple of trees that I don't care for. Our front yard gets full sun. We have one oak tree and I have no clue what the other one is. I want the second tree to be more "dazzling," something with color. What options do we have for San Antonio?

"Growing a Lawn and Saving Water" is the topic of a Tuesday educational session being held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Learn green lawn care tips, water conservation practices and green living ways to conserve and reduce environmental impact. For more information and to reserve a space, contact Angel Torres at 467-6575. Registration fee of $10 is payable at the door. More information is at http://bexar-tx.tamu.edu.

David Rodriguez is the county extension agent-horticulture for Texas A&MAgriLife Extension Service in Bexar County. To submit questions, call the Bexar County Master Gardeners Hotline at 467-6575, email questions to info@bexarcountymastergardeners.org, or visit the county extension website at http://bexar-tx.tamu.edu.